Detox

Indications

Spirulina is a dried blue-green alga (cyanobacterium) sold as a food supplement. It is used as a source of protein, vitamins (including B vitamins and beta-carotene), minerals such as iron, and antioxidants, to support general nutrition. It may help in mild nutritional deficiency and is sometimes used alongside diet and exercise for blood fat and blood sugar control, though evidence for these uses is limited. It is not a substitute for a balanced diet or prescribed treatment.

How It Works

Spirulina provides concentrated nutrients. It also contains a blue pigment called phycocyanin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory studies. Note that most of the vitamin B12 in spirulina is an inactive form, so it is not a reliable source of B12.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the pack. Products commonly provide 500 mg tablets or capsules, and typical adult intake is about 1 to 3 g a day in divided doses with meals. Start with a low amount to check how you tolerate it. Children: only on a doctor's advice.

Interactions

Spirulina may stimulate the immune system and could reduce the effect of medicines that suppress it, such as Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus, Azathioprine and corticosteroids. It may slightly slow blood clotting, so take care with Warfarin, Clopidogrel and Aspirin. It may add to the effect of diabetes medicines, so blood sugar should be watched.

Contraindications

• Allergy to spirulina, algae or seafood-derived products.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU), as spirulina contains phenylalanine.
• Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis), unless the doctor agrees.

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Some people have nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, headache, mild sleep problems or flushing, especially when starting. Stools may turn dark green.

Products contaminated with algae toxins or heavy metals can cause liver damage. Stop taking it and get urgent medical help for: yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain or vomiting, muscle weakness, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat, rash or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is not enough safety information. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it, mainly because of the risk of contamination.

Precautions and Warnings

• Buy only from reliable, tested sources; wild-harvested or untested products may contain toxins or heavy metals.
• Tell the doctor before using it if you have liver disease, a bleeding disorder, gout or kidney stones, or are taking regular medicines.
• Stop at least 2 weeks before planned surgery.
• Do not use it in place of prescribed treatment for anaemia, diabetes or high cholesterol.

Overdose

Large amounts mainly cause stomach upset, nausea and diarrhoea. Seek medical advice if a large amount was taken, if a child swallowed it, or if there are signs of liver problems.

Therapeutic Class

Nutritional supplement (algae-based).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture, with the container tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.